Kayaking In Washington DC Will Show You A Different Side To The City
Tourists from all around the world come to the US capital every year. It is, after all, a city full of sights, from the White House to the Smithsonian. Some of the most important events in the history of the USA have taken place here and the decisions made in this city affect everyone, no matter in which country they live. If you want to visit without feeling like just another tourist, a great option is to go kayaking in Washington DC.
Aside from the fact that Washington DC is the capital of the USA, it's also special because it doesn't fall within the borders of any of the country's states. The District of Columbia, which is where the 'DC' in the name comes from, is entirely separate even though it lies between the states of Maryland and Virginia. DC is a great city for people who love spending time outdoors, with many green spaces and several great spots for being out on the water.
The largest body of water in DC is the Potomac River, which forms its western border. This is one of the best places to go sightseeing by kayak. From the water you'll see the Lincoln Memorial with the Washington Monument and the US Capitol peeking out behind it. You'll also be able to spot the Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial and the Kennedy Center, not to mention the District's famous cherry trees.
Probably the most historic of DC's neighborhoods is Georgetown, where you'll also find Georgetown University and Washington Harbor. It's from the latter that many kayak trips along the Potomac start. Georgetown also offers the perfect alternative for paddlers who would rather avoid boat traffic or rapids. The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal has very calm waters and is very scenic too, with the historic buildings along its banks.
If you've never gone paddling before, don't fret. Simply take some lessons. You can do this at most of the outfitters renting out kayaks. Some of these businesses will also teach you how to master the art of stand-up paddleboarding or even canoeing. They also have guided tours for different levels of skill and to different areas.
There are other ways to explore DC too and they don't always involve tour buses. In fact, the National Mall, where most sights are located, is small enough to explore on foot. If you'd rather pedal than paddle, simply rent a bike and explore the many bike paths in the area. You may even consider a guided bicycle tour.
Winter is not the best time to visit, since it's very cold outside. Summer is better but the heat and humidity can be very uncomfortable. If you want to experience DC in the best way possible, come in the fall or in spring, when the weather is perfect. Bring your camera because the fall colors are stunning and in spring, the city's cherry trees are dripping with delicate blossoms.
Most places where you can rent kayaks in DC are located in the Georgetown area or at the marinas. There are some outfitters based just across the border in Maryland too. To find one, ask your travel agent or do an online search.
Aside from the fact that Washington DC is the capital of the USA, it's also special because it doesn't fall within the borders of any of the country's states. The District of Columbia, which is where the 'DC' in the name comes from, is entirely separate even though it lies between the states of Maryland and Virginia. DC is a great city for people who love spending time outdoors, with many green spaces and several great spots for being out on the water.
The largest body of water in DC is the Potomac River, which forms its western border. This is one of the best places to go sightseeing by kayak. From the water you'll see the Lincoln Memorial with the Washington Monument and the US Capitol peeking out behind it. You'll also be able to spot the Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial and the Kennedy Center, not to mention the District's famous cherry trees.
Probably the most historic of DC's neighborhoods is Georgetown, where you'll also find Georgetown University and Washington Harbor. It's from the latter that many kayak trips along the Potomac start. Georgetown also offers the perfect alternative for paddlers who would rather avoid boat traffic or rapids. The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal has very calm waters and is very scenic too, with the historic buildings along its banks.
If you've never gone paddling before, don't fret. Simply take some lessons. You can do this at most of the outfitters renting out kayaks. Some of these businesses will also teach you how to master the art of stand-up paddleboarding or even canoeing. They also have guided tours for different levels of skill and to different areas.
There are other ways to explore DC too and they don't always involve tour buses. In fact, the National Mall, where most sights are located, is small enough to explore on foot. If you'd rather pedal than paddle, simply rent a bike and explore the many bike paths in the area. You may even consider a guided bicycle tour.
Winter is not the best time to visit, since it's very cold outside. Summer is better but the heat and humidity can be very uncomfortable. If you want to experience DC in the best way possible, come in the fall or in spring, when the weather is perfect. Bring your camera because the fall colors are stunning and in spring, the city's cherry trees are dripping with delicate blossoms.
Most places where you can rent kayaks in DC are located in the Georgetown area or at the marinas. There are some outfitters based just across the border in Maryland too. To find one, ask your travel agent or do an online search.
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